SOAR

The application process for SSI/SSDI (Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Income) is complicated and difficult to navigate. For people who are homeless or who are returning to the community from institutions (jails, prisons or hospitals), access to these programs can be extremely challenging. Approval on initial application for people who are homeless and who have no one to assist them is about 10-15 percent. For those who have a mental illness, substance use issues, or co-occurring disorders that impair cognition, the application process is even more difficult – yet accessing these benefits is often a critical first step in recovery.  SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access and Recovery (SOAR) is an approach that helps states increase access to mainstream benefits for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness through strategic planning, training and technical assistance.  For more information about SOAR check out the website for Policy Research, the SOAR program developer at http://prainc.com/soar/

In Illinois, SOAR-trained individuals and agencies are able to link together and share ideas at the MTCIL website.  All persons who participate in SOAR training are provided password protected access to this valuable website.  Here they will be able to get access to many of the forms referenced in the training, get answers to their questions, and obtain valuable updates on the Illinois SOAR initiative. 

To register for an upcoming SOAR training, please visit: http://www.shpa-il.org/next-training